Banh Tom Chien, commonly known as Fried Shrimp Cakes, is a delightful Vietnamese delicacy that has captured the hearts of food enthusiasts around the globe. Made from a delicious combination of fresh shrimp, sweet potato, and a crispy batter, this dish offers a unique blend of flavors and textures that are both irresistible and addictive. Historically hailing from the streets of Hanoi, Banh Tom Chien is often enjoyed as a popular snack or appetizer, making it a staple in Vietnamese cuisine. As one food blogger aptly put it, The crispy exterior combined with the succulent shrimp inside creates a mouthwatering experience that is hard to forget” (Source: Food Lovers Blog). This dish’s vibrant flavors and rich cultural heritage contribute to its growing popularity in international food scenes.
Banh Tom Chien (Fried Shrimp Cakes)
Banh Tom Chien is a beloved Vietnamese dish, particularly popular in the bustling streets of Hanoi. These delightful fried shrimp cakes are characterized by their crispy exterior and succulent fillings, making them a favorite among both locals and tourists. Traditionally, they are made with sweet potatoes and fresh shrimp, providing a harmonious blend of flavors and textures. Banh Tom Chien is often served as a snack or appetizer, accompanied by a tangy dipping sauce, and it’s a must-try for anyone looking to experience authentic Vietnamese cuisine.
Preparation
Preparing Banh Tom Chien involves selecting the freshest ingredients and following traditional methods to achieve the perfect balance of crunch and tenderness. Here are the essential components and steps to create this delightful dish.
History
The origins of Banh Tom Chien can be traced back to ancient Vietnam, where street vendors began frying cakes made of shrimp and starch. Over time, the dish evolved, incorporating sweet potatoes as a primary ingredient, enhancing both flavor and texture. Its popularity soared, becoming a staple in Vietnamese street food culture, celebrated for its simplicity and deliciousness.
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Shrimp (small, peeled and deveined) | 200g |
| Sweet potatoes (grated) | 300g |
| Rice flour | 100g |
| All-purpose flour | 50g |
| Water | 150ml |
| Salt | 1/2 tsp |
| Black pepper | 1/4 tsp |
| Garlic (minced) | 1 clove |
| Vegetable oil (for frying) | As needed |
| Fresh herbs (for garnish) | Optional |
Steps
- Prepare the Sweet Potatoes: Peel and grate the sweet potatoes. Place them in a bowl and set aside.
- Make the Batter: In a large mixing bowl, combine the rice flour, all-purpose flour, water, salt, black pepper, and minced garlic. Mix until you achieve a smooth batter.
- Combine Ingredients: Add the grated sweet potatoes and shrimp to the batter. Stir well to ensure the shrimp and sweet potatoes are evenly coated.
- Heat the Oil: In a frying pan, heat enough vegetable oil over medium heat to submerge the cakes. Allow the oil to become hot but not smoking.
- Fry the Cakes: Use a spoon to drop portions of the batter mixture into the hot oil. Fry until the cakes are golden brown and crispy, about 4-5 minutes per side.
- Drain Excess Oil: Once cooked, remove the cakes from the oil and place them on a plate lined with paper towels to absorb excess oil.
- Serve: Plate the Banh Tom Chien warm, garnished with fresh herbs if desired, and serve with a dipping sauce made from fish sauce, lime juice, and chili.
Enjoy your homemade Banh Tom Chien as a perfect snack or appetizer!
Frequently Asked Questions
What are Banh Tom Chien?
Banh Tom Chien are crispy fried shrimp cakes popular in Vietnamese cuisine, made with a blend of shrimp, sweet potato, and flour.
How are Banh Tom Chien made?
They are made by mixing shrimp and grated sweet potato in a batter, then frying until golden and crispy.
What ingredients are in Banh Tom Chien?
Key ingredients include shrimp, sweet potato, rice flour, and water, often seasoned with salt and pepper.
Are Banh Tom Chien gluten-free?
They are not typically gluten-free due to the use of rice flour, but variations can be made with gluten-free alternatives.
What do Banh Tom Chien taste like?
They have a delightful crunch with a mix of savory shrimp flavor and a hint of sweetness from the sweet potato.
How should Banh Tom Chien be served?
They are usually served hot, accompanied by a dipping sauce and fresh herbs or vegetables.
Can Banh Tom Chien be frozen?
Yes, you can freeze uncooked Banh Tom Chien and fry them directly from frozen when ready to eat.
What is the best dipping sauce for Banh Tom Chien?
A popular choice is a nuoc cham sauce, made with fish sauce, lime juice, garlic, and sugar.
Are Banh Tom Chien healthy?
While they are tasty, Banh Tom Chien are deep-fried, so they should be enjoyed in moderation as part of a balanced diet.
Where can I find Banh Tom Chien?
They can be found in many Vietnamese restaurants and street food stalls, especially in cities with a vibrant Vietnamese community.
Can Banh Tom Chien be made vegetarian?
Yes, vegetarian versions can be made by substituting shrimp with mushrooms or other vegetables while using the same batter.
How long do Banh Tom Chien last after cooking?
Cooked Banh Tom Chien are best eaten fresh but can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 1-2 days.
